OUR MISSION

to conserve the natural, scenic, recreational, historic and agricultural values of southwestern Idaho's open spaces.

OUR STORY

In early 1996, many Treasure Valley residents were watching, and worrying about, the escalating pace of urban development. Seeking to better understand the change underway, a small group gathered in Boise. They learned about land trusts and how they are used to achieve community open space goals. A steering committee formed to explore the need for and possibility of creating a local land trust.

The committee found Ada and Canyon counties, in particular, were experiencing rapid population growth, bringing development sprawl and rising land values. Open spaces central to the character and quality of life in southwest Idaho were threatened. The direct intersection of city and nature, which had always offered nearby recreation opportunities, was disappearing. It was clear that there was a need for the kind of citizen-led open space protection that a land trust could champion.

In August 1996, the steering committee released its findings, inviting interested individuals to become involved in forming a local land trust. Soon thereafter, a board of directors was formed, articles of incorporation and bylaws were adopted, and IRS tax-exempt status was applied for and received.

Initially, Land Trust of the Treasure Valley operated thanks to the time and energy of volunteers. In 2006, the organization had grown and Tim Breuer was hired to serve as the first executive director. Tim came to the organization after having been instrumental in the creation of what is now the Ridge to Rivers trail system, bringing a wealth of knowledge and understanding about Treasure Valley open space.

Today, Land Trust of the Treasure Valley owns and manages several parcels of open space, as well as a number of trail and conservation easements, thanks to the leadership of the board, staff, and thousands of citizens across the community.